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TAMPA BAY • FEBRUARY 23-24 2026

This FINAL encore experience will be unlike any other. Because like everything we do, it's been "reimagined" from beginning to end. It's not a virtual or hybrid event. It's not a conference. It's not a seminar, a workshop, a meeting, or a symposium. And it's not your typical run-of-the-mill everyday event crammed with stages, keynote speeches, team-building exercises, PowerPoint presentations, and all the other conventional humdrum. Because it's up close & personal by design. Where conversation trumps presentation. And where authentic connection runs deep.

Wake Up Media: America Needs YOU!

The political debate is: Will Americans move away from free markets and toward socialism? According to the dictionary, “A transitional social state is between the overthrow of capitalism and the realization of communism: socialism is the first stage of the worldwide transition to communism.”

Socialism may sound good to people struggling to pay bills and the younger generation, but we are heading down a dangerous path! Social isolation and COVID took a significant toll on families. There was confusion after January 6th, with politicians dividing Americans. Free speech and religious freedom are now under attack, and the national media has avoided covering bipartisan discussions.

The American people should demand open monthly debates between Democrats. Republicans and Independents. Many Americans see a troubling future of division, which translates into frustration, anger, and fear for their children’s future.

We can’t heal without honest discussions. There are many conflicting stories of what did and did not happen on January 6th.

For years, the media has been an “ambulance chaser.” Many programs focus on “If it bleeds, it leads.” Celebrities, gossip, clothes, makeup, food, movies, music, and sex are hot topics too. Today, Americans need programs that offer hope on issues that concern them the most. It is time to get creative and make informative programs interesting.

We, the people,” have ideas and solutions! 

The U.S. Constitution states, “We the People, to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility. provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity…” So why is the media biased toward one party or the other without including the people who create change?

The media can play a critical role in healing and reducing stress for people who care about issues that affect their lives. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Offer a one hour a week Forum on every channel. A discussion with citizens, experts, and representatives of non-profits. Exchange ideas with an interactive audience. End the show with a plan of action and contacts to answer questions.
  • Address problems that concern Americans; January 6th, housing, cost of food, crime, violence, sex trafficking, Sextortion/Internet safety, education, home safety, youth empowerment, environment, parenting, child care, gender dystrophia, neighborhood involvement, police, Immigration, homelessness, suicide, stress, and anger, etc.
  • Invite teens to participate; write their ideas, make a poster, write a poem or song about the subject.
  • Have a contest where people can offer their solutions.
  • Invite families and neighbors to work together on a project of interest and come on the show to share ideas with a PowerPoint presentation or video.

I’ve been a crime and violence prevention specialist for 40 years, and I was always surprised by how wise and creative people are at coming up with workable solutions. Citizens have the answers to our problems. TV programs can tap into a treasure trove of solutions from people working on issues that help their fellow Americans.

Politicians pass laws and spend our money! The media has much to gain if they start conversations to educate and discuss ideas and solutions that can stimulate meaningful community discussions. It will be “we the people” who save America. Let’s work together to make change happen.

Stephanie L. Mann
Stephanie L. Mannhttps://safekidsnow.com/
Stephanie Mann co-authored, Alternative to Fear: Guidelines to Safer Neighborhoods,” which helped launch the national “Neighborhood Watch” Program. Within 2 1/2 years, involved residents in her community (17,500 residents) decreased crime 48%, WITHOUT a local police department. Mann worked as a community leader, neighborhood organizer, county coordinator, state consultant and authored, “Safe Homes, Safe Neighborhoods: Stopping Crime Where You Live” (Nolo Press 1993) In 2010, while working in Richmond CA, with “Mother’s Against Senseless Killings,” Mann saw people too scared to be involved or report crimes. She wrote, “The Adopt-A-Block Guidebook,” with an easy-to-follow guide for existing groups and “My first steps to a safe neighborhood” for citizens. These booklets give individuals and groups the tools to reach out and bring people together to help each other. Stephanie started a homeless men’s support group while working with “The Mary Ann Wright Foundation” in Oakland CA. She recognized the need to support children at an early age and wrote, “Street Safe Kids: 10 Step Guide for Teens and Adults” (which has been used in after-school programs) to help youth grow strong from within to develop self-esteem and stay centered. Book available on amazon.com The Safe Kids Now National website states, “Every child needs a healthy family and neighborhood to stay safe.” In partnership with the CARR Foundation, a binder, “Safe Neighborhoods: Access to a Healthy Community,” was created for city leaders to make neighborhoods safer for families and neighborhoods. Stephanie’s books strengthen families and can decrease the social isolation that fuels bullies, domestic violence, abuse, drugs, gangs, and other destructive behaviors.”

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